Well, I did it again. I opened up my laptop and headed over to my Facebook page before sitting with the Lord first. Not my brightest move today. Phil Robertson has been suspended from Duck Dynasty because of sharing his beliefs.
Yep, I did it. I allowed the noise of the world into my head. Now I’m dealing with the noise of all those thoughts being tossed around like MMA fighters duking it out. You know what I mean. Those conversations I want to have with people and words I’d love to share loudly…in love of course.
Noise comes in many shapes and sizes. Just ask a mom. But, what about the noise of the world we allow in our home by our own hand?
You might be surprised to know I’m passionate about lots of things. Jesus being numero uno, but after Him and of course my family, I’m passionate about the country I’m blessed to live in – grateful for the rights I’ve been given, by nothing I’ve done, a blessing plain and simple.
So, when I begin reading about Phil Robertson’s freedom of speech being under attack – my blood boils. I hope my blood would boil if Ellen Degeneres’ words were stifled, too.
I digress.
The point I’m trying to make is that “noise” assassinates peace. Every time.
So, here’s something I’ve learned to do for peace in my life and my day…actually two things:
- Turn off my laptop. There is much going on that can draw me in and stress me WAY out. After I post this? I’m turning off my laptop. I’m running a few errands. I’m listening to worship music and praying for peace in my day. Don’t be mistaken, I don’t think we should stuff our fingers in our ears when there’s a cause or a stand to take, but to bring my heart back down to a steady beat, to calm my easily angered thoughts over what may be going on in the world I need to shut it out for a bit. And, that means shutting off my laptop.
- Turn off the TV. Okay, this is more for you than me. Why? Because we don’t have cable TV. We stay up to date with current affairs by the internet – another reason I need to shut off my laptop. Take back your homes sweet friends. Turn off the blaring constant white noise and give your attention to each other.
The Lord says make a joyful noise. It’s a thought-out commitment and a difficult task at times. But, friends, if you want peace this Christmas then shut out a bit of the noise. You’ll discover His peace wasn’t as far away as you might have thought.
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. -Psalm 100:1
Yikes – I just signed off, too, Joanne. People are sure showing their “ugly sides” on FB today. I’ll pick it back up in the morning. But it will likely be no better. On to Christmas music and baking all day. Wish you were here! Coffee’s on me.
Following your lead, friend. You’re right – we’d be lethal if we lived close by. Love you. Shutting down … 3,2,1 –